MUSKEGON – A Muskegon Public Schools teacher from Montague officially announced her candidacy for state representative Friday afternoon at the Masonic Temple.

Collene Lamonte, a Democratic candidate, plans to seek the 91st District seat currently held by Republican Holly Hughes.

The district covers Norton Shores and much of the nonurban area of Muskegon County. The district is typically competitive with a pretty even split of Democrats and Republicans.

Before Hughes won her first two-year term in 2010, a Democrat, Mary Valentine, held the seat.

Nearly 70 people, including family, friends and some local Democratic office holders, were at Lamonte’s planned announcement event an hour after it began at 4 p.m. Some state Democratic leaders are expected to attend the event, which runs until 7 p.m.

She expected to address her supporters around 5:30 p.m.

Based on her campaign paperwork, Lamonte, 43, said she decided to run for the office after becoming “stunned and angry” about the “terrible” legislation being approved by the Republican-led state House and Senate since the 2010 elections.

Lamonte may face Hughes in the November general election. Other candidates could still join the race before the May 15 filing deadline, causing potential primary races in early August for both parties.

The Chronicle will continue to report on the story. Check back to mlive.com/muskegon.